RAY BROOK — Dan Dederick, a resident of Ray Brook, plans to ride 1,000 miles and raise $1,000 during the month of June for Children’s Cancer Research Fund, in support of its fifth annual Great Cycle Challenge USA.

Founded in 2015, Great Cycle Challenge USA has grown to become one of the biggest cycling events in the country. In four years, more than 153,000 riders from 50 states have ridden 12 million miles, raising more than $16 million for research and the development of better treatments and cures for childhood cancer. This year, CCRF hopes more than 50,000 riders will help it raise $8.2 million.

“Over 15,000 American children are diagnosed with cancer every year, and, sadly, 38 children die every week,” Children’s Cancer Research Fund CEO John Hallberg said in a press release. “Thanks to riders like Dan, we’re fueling groundbreaking research to save lives and give kids the brighter future they deserve.”

“This is the second time I have participated in Great Cycle Challenge,” Dederick said. “During those years, I rode 880 miles and raised $190.23. This year, I am aiming to raise $1,000 and ride 1,000 miles.”